Tokyo Ravens is a compelling blend of supernatural action, intricate world-building, and character-driven drama set in a version of modern Japan where onmyouji—practitioners of ancient Japanese magic—coexist with advanced technology. The story follows Harutora Tsuchimikado, a boy from a prestigious onmyouji family who lacks the ability to see spirits. His life changes when his childhood friend and heir to the Tsuchimikado legacy, Natsume, re-enters his life, dragging him into the dangerous world of magical warfare, secret organizations, and the dark secrets of his own family’s past.
The series is defined by its core themes: a complex, layered power system rooted in Japanese folklore and spiritual traditions, where battles are won through knowledge and strategy as much as raw power. Harutora is the quintessential underdog—a boy without talent in a world defined by it—who must rely on his determination, his bonds with others, and the gradual awakening of his own hidden potential. Tokyo Ravens masterfully subverts expectations by playing with themes of identity, duty, and the blurred lines between the living and the dead, all while building toward a deeply emotional and satisfying conclusion.
For fans of Tokyo Ravens, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique niche—part school-life drama, part urban fantasy, part epic action saga. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on traditional or folkloric magic systems, an underdog protagonist who grows through hard work and sacrifice, and a willingness to subvert the tropes of the “chosen one” narrative. These shows deserve far more attention for their rich world-building, their emotional depth, and their ability to blend the supernatural with deeply human stories.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Tokyo Ravens.
1. Kekkaishi (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 52
- Studio: Sunrise
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yellow Tanabe, directed by Kenji Kodama.
Plot Summary: Yoshimori Sumimura and Tokine Yukimura are two teenage “Kekkaishi”—warriors who use magical barriers to protect their school, which sits atop a powerful spiritual site. They must balance their duties, their budding rivalry, and their growing feelings for each other while defending against increasingly powerful demons.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series feature a power system rooted in Japanese spiritual traditions, with a focus on technique and strategy over raw power. The dynamic between the two leads, who come from rival families but must work together, mirrors the relationship between Harutora and Natsume. The slow-burn romance and the exploration of duty versus personal desire are also central to both narratives.
2. Rental Magica (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.8
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Zexcs
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Makoto Sanda.
Plot Summary: Itsuki Iba is the president of “Astral,” a small, struggling company that rents out magical services. He must lead his team of eccentric mages—each with their own unique magical specialty—to compete against larger, more powerful magical organizations.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: The core similarity is the focus on a team of underdogs working within a larger magical society. Itsuki, like Harutora, is not the most powerful mage, but he is a leader who inspires loyalty. The series explores different types of magic from various cultural traditions, creating a rich and diverse power system that rewards knowledge and creativity.
3. Shonen Onmyoji (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Mitsuru Yuki.
Plot Summary: Masahiro, the grandson of the legendary onmyouji Abe no Seimei, is determined to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps, despite being told he lacks the talent. He and his spirit companion, Mokkun, must prove themselves while facing increasingly dangerous threats from the spirit world.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: This is a direct thematic predecessor. Both series are about onmyouji, the practice of Japanese spirit magic, and feature protagonists who are heirs to a great legacy but must forge their own path. The bond between Masahiro and his spirit companion mirrors the familiar bonds in Tokyo Ravens. The focus on Japanese folklore and the struggle to live up to family expectations are central to both.
4. Ghost Hunt (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Fuyumi Ono (The Twelve Kingdoms).
Plot Summary: Mai Taniyama, a high school student, becomes involved with the Shibuya Psychic Research Center, a team of investigators who solve paranormal cases. Led by the cold but brilliant Kazuya Shibuya, the team uses both scientific methods and spiritual powers to confront ghosts, curses, and other supernatural phenomena.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series are set in modern Japan where the supernatural is real but hidden from the general public. The focus on investigating and resolving supernatural incidents, often with a combination of knowledge, strategy, and spiritual power, is a direct parallel. The character dynamics within the team, with each member having a unique specialty, are also reminiscent.
5. Ga-Rei: Zero (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: AIC Spirits and asread.
- Notable Staff: Directed by Ei Aoki (Fate/Zero).
Plot Summary: This prequel to the Ga-Rei manga focuses on the deep bond between Kagura Tsuchimiya and Yomi Isayama, two young women who fight supernatural threats as part of a government agency. Their sisterly relationship is tragically torn apart when Yomi is consumed by a powerful demonic force.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series feature a secret government agency dedicated to fighting supernatural threats, with a strong focus on the bonds between its members. The central theme of a relationship destroyed by dark forces, and the subsequent struggle for redemption, is a powerful emotional core that mirrors the conflicts in Tokyo Ravens. The action is intense and beautifully animated.
6. Un-Go (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 11
- Studio: Bones
- Notable Staff: Directed by Seiji Mizushima (Fullmetal Alchemist), based on the works of Ango Sakaguchi.
Plot Summary: In a near-future Japan recovering from a devastating war, a detective named Shinjuurou Yuuki and his mysterious partner Inga solve crimes in a world where information is heavily censored. Inga has the supernatural ability to force anyone to answer a single question truthfully.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series blend mystery, the supernatural, and social commentary within a modern Japanese setting. The focus is on uncovering hidden truths and the corruption within society. The relationship between Shinjuurou and Inga is complex and central to the narrative, much like the bonds in Tokyo Ravens, and both series feature a power system that is used for investigation rather than just combat.
7. Night Wizard! (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.5
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: Hal Film Maker
- Notable Staff: Based on the tabletop RPG by Enterbrain.
Plot Summary: Renji Hiiragi is a “Night Wizard,” a mage who protects the world from demonic invasions from another dimension. He and his team of fellow wizards must prevent the “Emulators” from destroying the barrier between worlds.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both are urban fantasy series with a focus on a team of magic users fighting against supernatural threats. The power system is based on a game-like structure with specific rules and abilities, similar to the structured onmyoudo system in Tokyo Ravens. The protagonist is an underdog who must rely on his team, and the series has a similar blend of action, drama, and lighthearted moments.
8. Mushi-shi (2005)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 8.7
- Episodes: 26 (Season 1)
- Studio: Artland
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yuki Urushibara.
Plot Summary: Ginko, a “Mushi-shi,” travels the countryside investigating “Mushi”—primordial, ethereal lifeforms that exist alongside humanity, often causing inexplicable and sometimes harmful phenomena. His journey is one of quiet observation, understanding, and finding balance.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: While tonally different, both series share a deep reverence for Japanese spirituality and the unseen world. The “Mushi” are akin to the spirits and demons in Tokyo Ravens, existing in a realm that most humans cannot perceive. The focus on understanding these entities and finding ways to coexist with them, rather than simply destroying them, is a core thematic similarity.
9. Blue Exorcist (Ao no Exorcist) (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1)
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kazue Kato.
Plot Summary: Rin Okumura discovers that he is the son of Satan, but instead of embracing his demonic heritage, he vows to become an Exorcist and defeat his father. He enrolls at True Cross Academy, a school for exorcists, to learn how to fight the forces of hell.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both are set in schools that train young people to fight supernatural threats. The protagonist, Rin, is an underdog who is initially feared and ostracized because of his heritage, much like Harutora struggles with his family’s legacy. The series explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the struggle against one’s own nature, which are central to Tokyo Ravens.
10. Noragami (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: Bones
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Adachitoka.
Plot Summary: Yato is a minor god who dreams of having his own shrine and a large following. He performs odd jobs for five yen, aided by his “Regalia,” a spirit weapon named Yukine, and a human girl named Hiyori who can leave her body.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series are set in a modern Japan where gods, spirits, and the supernatural exist alongside the mundane world. The focus is on the relationships between humans, gods, and spirits. Yato, like Harutora, is an underdog in his own world, and the series explores themes of identity, purpose, and the bonds that give one strength.
11. Twin Star Exorcists (Sousei no Onmyouji) (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 50
- Studio: Pierrot
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yoshiaki Sukeno.
Plot Summary: Rokuro Enmado and Benio Adashino are two talented young exorcists who are prophesied to be the “Twin Star Exorcists,” destined to give birth to the Miko, the ultimate exorcist who will cleanse the world of impurities. They must learn to work together and grow stronger to fulfill their destiny.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: This is a direct thematic cousin. Both series are about onmyouji, feature a central duo bound by destiny and family legacy, and focus on the battle against demonic impurities. The dynamic between Rokuro and Benio, who initially clash but gradually develop a deep bond, mirrors Harutora and Natsume. The power system is based on the same Japanese spiritual traditions.
12. The Eccentric Family (Uchouten Kazoku) (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: P.A. Works
- Notable Staff: Based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi, directed by Masayuki Yoshihara.
Plot Summary: In modern Kyoto, tanuki (raccoon dogs) can shapeshift, tengu can fly, and humans coexist with these supernatural beings. The story follows Yasaburou Shimogamo, a young tanuki, as he navigates the complex social dynamics of this world and investigates the mysterious death of his father.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both are set in a version of Japan where the supernatural is integrated into daily life. The focus on Japanese folklore and the intricate relationships between different supernatural factions are a direct parallel. The series is a blend of comedy, drama, and mystery, with a strong focus on family bonds, much like Tokyo Ravens.
13. Kaze no Stigma (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Gonzo
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Takahiro Yamato.
Plot Summary: Kazuma Yagami, once exiled from his family for his lack of fire magic, returns after years of training as a powerful wind mage. He must reluctantly work with his younger brother and his family’s fire magic to confront a series of demonic threats.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both feature a protagonist who was considered a failure by his family and returns to prove his worth, wielding a different kind of power. The focus on family legacy, the clash between different magical traditions, and the theme of finding one’s own path are central to both. Kazuma is an underdog who has become powerful through hard work, a direct parallel to Harutora’s journey.
14. Kamisama Dolls (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.9
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Hajime Yamamura.
Plot Summary: Kyouhei Kuga moves to Tokyo to escape his past and the mysterious power he possesses—the ability to control a powerful spiritual entity called a “Kakashi.” His peaceful life is shattered when his younger sister arrives with her own Kakashi, and he is drawn back into the dark secrets of his village.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both series feature protagonists who are trying to escape a dark past and a hidden power they possess. The “Kakashi” are powerful spiritual entities with specific abilities, similar to the shikigami in Tokyo Ravens. The focus on hidden villages, secret organizations, and the dark consequences of power are a direct thematic match.
15. Occult Academy (Seikimatsu Occult Gakuin) (2010)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Notable Staff: Directed by Tomohiko Ito (Sword Art Online), with original story by Hiroyuki Kitakubo.
Plot Summary: Maya Kumashiro, the daughter of a famous occult researcher, returns to the Waldstein Academy to take over as principal after her father’s death. She is a skeptic who hates the occult, but she is forced to confront the supernatural when a time traveler from the future arrives, warning of an alien invasion.
Similarities to Tokyo Ravens: Both are set in a school environment where the supernatural is a subject of study. The blend of occultism, mystery, and a looming apocalyptic threat is a core similarity. The protagonist, Maya, is an underdog who is initially in denial about her own connection to the supernatural world, a journey of self-discovery that mirrors Harutora’s growth.
Why These Anime Work for Tokyo Ravens Fans
Fans of Tokyo Ravens are drawn to stories that blend rich, culturally-grounded supernatural elements with compelling character drama and high-stakes action. They appreciate a power system that has rules and history, where knowledge and strategy are just as important as raw power. They are invested in underdog protagonists who must overcome their own limitations and the expectations of their families to forge their own destinies.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- Folkloric Power Systems: Whether it is onmyoudo, kekkai barriers, or the magic of tanuki and gods, these series draw from Japanese spiritual traditions to create worlds that feel authentic and deeply layered. The powers are not just flashy special effects; they are tied to history, culture, and character identity.
- The Underdog’s Journey: The protagonists are rarely the strongest or the most talented. They are often outcasts, failures, or individuals who must work twice as hard to achieve half as much. Their struggles are relatable, and their growth is earned through sacrifice and determination.
- Subversion of the Chosen One: These series understand that being a “chosen one” or the heir to a great legacy is often more of a burden than a blessing. They explore the dark side of destiny, the weight of family expectations, and the freedom that comes from forging one’s own path.
These 15 anime, like Tokyo Ravens, understand that the most compelling stories are those where the supernatural is not just a backdrop for action, but a lens through which to explore the complexities of human relationships, identity, and the search for meaning. They are underrated gems that offer rich, immersive experiences for viewers who are willing to look beyond the surface.
